Ukraine Response
On February 24, 2022, the world watched in horror as Russia launched an unprovoked attack on Ukraine. The ongoing war has caused the world’s largest displacement crisis in Europe since World War II, with over six million Ukrainian refugees recorded globally.
In Moldova, CWS works alongside host communities and local organizations to provide access to education, livelihoods and psychosocial support, and basic needs like food and shelter for Ukrainian refugees and the host communities that have welcomed them. Since the conflict began, CWS has worked to address the short and longer-term needs of roughly 44,000 individuals.
As of 2024, CWS also launched operations in Ukraine's Odesa Oblast province to provide essential services such as food distribution, medical and psychosocial support and protection for vulnerable groups, in partnership with local organizations.
Our programs focus on bringing people together, providing stability during a time of uncertainty and giving communities the tools they need to build a safer life.
Mark's Story
When Russia invaded Ukraine, Mark, his mother and his little brother were all forced to flee to neighboring Moldova. During his school classes at Anastasis, the CWS-supported educational center in Balti, Mark started thinking about how to take care of his mom and brother. He decided he would become an artist and sell his paintings.
Mark got to work and took both his school commitments and art lessons at Anastasis very seriously. To support Mark in his artistic endeavors, we gifted him a brand-new art kit. Mark is saving the money to buy a gift for his mom and brighten up her birthday.
Today, Mark is still on his journey to become a successful artist. Through our program, we are making sure Mark can pursue his dreams while also feeling the freedom to have fun and just be a kid. Mark’s beautiful painting is a bright and colorful reminder of what our youngest program participants can do when they are determined, encouraged and full of hope.
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Latest Updates
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From War to Healing: Serghei’s Journey to Hope
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“I Am No Longer Alone—And That Matters.”
Silvia and her family were forced to flee Odesa, Ukraine, when war upended their lives. With the support of the Anastasis Educational Center in Bălți, Moldova, they found safety, resources and counseling that helped them heal, regain stability, and rebuild hope for the future. Life Disrupted by War and Separation Before the war, Silvia* lived an ordinary life. She shared …
Starting Over: Anna’s Journey from Kherson to Confidence
The following blog was written by a program participant of CWS’s local Moldovan partner, Healthy City. Healthy City, also known as Zdorovii Gorod, supports Ukrainian refugees by providing comprehensive services including food and non-food items, social inclusion and psychosocial support. My name is Anna Vasilevska, and I am 34 years old. I came from Ukraine, from the beautiful city of …